ALLEN PARK -- As you may have heard, opposing defenses have been designing their game plans around limiting the Detroit Lions' explosive passing attack. There have been three consistent components to this approach.

Finally, opponents are rarely blitzing. By sending just four pass rushers, it allows them to drop seven players back in coverage, making it difficult for Detroit's receivers to find open space.

Some of this might change when the Lions travel to Philadelphia to battle the Eagles this Sunday.

"They play a lot of two high safety schemes, but they have man concepts within them," quarterback Matthew Stafford. "That's what you see a lot on tape. Some single high, probably more than other teams we've watched, but again, they have guys that can really cover. You see that and understand why they do it."

The guys Stafford is referencing are the Eagles starting cornerbacks, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Nnamdi Asomugha. They anchor a secondary that is limiting opposing quarterbacks to a 53.6 completion percentage and 69.3 passer rating. Both marks rank in the top five in the NFL.

"They've really got a man-matchup kind of a defense, so you're going to have less of those zone check down completions," Linehan said. "Those will be down against them because they're matching up pretty much all the eligible receivers. They make you earn your completions."

Whether the Eagles mix up their coverages or go exclusively with zone schemes like the Lions' other opponents, wide receiver Calvin Johnson will be ready if there are one-on-one shots to be had.

"We've got to be opportunistic, take advantage of everything they give us, and I believe that we'll get some opportunities this game," Johnson said.

In addition to man coverage on the outside, it's possible the Lions could see a more aggressive pass rush from the Eagles. One year after leading the NFL with 50 sacks, Philadelphia has just seven through five games this season.

"Even with the fact that they may not have as many sacks as they'd expect at this point, I don't think there's another defense we've played that affects the quarterback like their front does," Linehan said.

Linehan hopes his offensive line can hold the Eagles' front four in check to the point where Philadelphia is compelled to start sending an extra pass rusher or two. He welcomes the opportunity for his offense to attack against blitzes.

"It wouldn't really hurt my feelings if people came after us a little bit more, but we've adjusted and know they're going to force us to be patient and the guys are doing a good job."